Dr. Mary G. McDonald, retired associate professor of Geography and former director of the Center for Japanese Studies (CJS) at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, was conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette at a special ceremony on Sept. 26 at the Consulate General of Japan in Honolulu.
McDonald served on the UH Manoa faculty for 26 years and made significant contributions to promoting academic exchange and mutual understanding between Japan and the United States.
Her efforts included serving on the JET program selection committee, advancing inter-university exchange programs, and strengthening various Japan–U.S. exchange initiatives through her role as director of CJS. Her leadership of CJS brought Japanese culture and research into the heart of the university.
Consul General Yoshinori Kodama congratulated McDonald and expressed deep respect for her contributions to strengthening Japan-U.S. relations. He highlighted Dr. McDonald’s leadership in the JET program and study abroad exchanges, as well as her role in advancing Japanese studies in Hawaii.
In her speech, Dr. McDonald explained her lifelong dedication to fostering Japan-U.S. relations through education, research, and cultural exchange, and thanked those in attendance for their support, noting that it was a great honor to receive the prestigious decoration.
“This recognition is entirely due to the tireless dedication to strong community and educational ties,” said McDonald. “I thank the government and people of Japan and Hawaiʻi for the opportunities our UH students and faculty have enjoyed in Japan. I thank the late Dr. Genshitsu Sen for his generosity to UH Mānoa students, emphasizing peace through The Way of Tea. UH Mānoa is truly an excellent place to study Japan, it has been a privilege to play a small part.”
The celebration also featured a congratulatory message from Robert Huey, a professor emeritus of the Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures and a kampai (cheers) toast by Jean Ariyoshi, former First Lady of Hawaiʻi.
